Xcel Energy, based in Minneapolis, said last week that it completed work on developing the systems for its SmartGridCity project in Boulder, Colorado. The utility company says it has already rolled out the ability to check customers’ existing energy meters remotely but not deployed smart meters yet which are being touted as technology which could give more consumers control over their energy costs. Some critics question the efficacy of smart meters being deployed by utility companies when the technology is designed to give customers more transparency over their real energy use.
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Expert review of architecture and design during the early development phase of a telematics device can save a company substantial time and money while maximizing market potential. The former CTO of Quake Global and lead architect of their market dominating satellite modem — Mark Jones — has formed Sancomm Inc. to provide precisely this service.
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Prospective clients need to experience the value of telematics. Hard data can help prove the viability of a solution to those with vision; but many customers lack vision. Imagine the reaction a client will have when an attractive usable interface is placed in their hands. They can click, navigate and discover first-hand how telematics can improve their life. But unintuitive and unattractive user interface limits the effectiveness of this sales strategy.
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